Advanced Analysis of Atmospheric and Terrestrial Solar Barriers via Photovoltaic Systemsin Arid Environments: Methodologies and Implications for Solar Energy

This study aims to evaluate solar obstacles of atmospheric and terrestrial origin using photovoltaic installations in arid regions. Solar obstacles, such as desert aerosols and dust deposits, can significantly reduce the eficiency of photovoltaic systems. The impact of these obstacles on solar radiation was analyzed using a numerical model and validated through measurements conducted with a reduced model consisting of solar modules installed at the Ouagadougou site (coordinates: 12.3738, -1.5588). This allowed for the observation of variations in aerosol optical depth (AOD) as well as the thickness of dust deposits. The variations in AOD and deposit thickness were measured under diferent atmospheric conditions, demonstrating a significant correlation with the decrease in global solar radiation. The study utilizes two solar systems installed side by side, one kept clean and the other left with deposits, to simulate the efects of solar obstacles. Observations show that simultaneous solar barriers, such as hazy skies and dusty surfaces, have a more significant impact than each barrier. The findings from this research provide valuable insights for optimizing the location and maintenance of solar installations, thereby maximizing their energy eficiency. This study contributes to a better understanding of the efects of solar barriers and proposes mitigation strategies to improve solar radiation capture in arid environments.